How to Update Electrical Wiring in an Old House

Older homes offer charm, character, and craftsmanship that’s hard to find in newer builds. But behind the walls? Things may be a little outdated, especially when it comes to your electrical system. If your house was built decades ago and still has its original wiring, it may be time to consider an upgrade.

Rewiring an old house isn’t just about keeping the lights on. It’s about protecting your home, family, and everything you rely on daily. Outdated electrical house wiring can increase fire risk, limit your ability to power modern appliances, and even make it harder to get home insurance.

So what does the process involve, and how do you get started?

Signs Your Wiring May Be Outdated

Every home ages differently, but here are some common red flags:

• Flickering lights or frequent power surges

• Outlets that are warm to the touch

• Two-prong outlets (no ground wire)

• Circuit breakers that trip often

• A burning smell near outlets or switches

• Lack of GFCI outlets in kitchens and bathrooms

These are signs that your system may not meet modern safety standards and may not be able to handle today’s electrical loads.

What’s Involved in Rewiring an Old House?

Upgrading your electrical house wiring is a big job—but one that pays off in safety, reliability, and peace of mind. The process typically includes:

• Evaluating your current system

• Removing or bypassing outdated wiring (like knob-and-tube or aluminum)

• Installing new wires, outlets, and switches

• Upgrading the electrical panel to meet current code

• Adding grounding and surge protection where needed

The project may take several days to weeks, depending on the size of your home and the job’s complexity. But the long-term benefits far outweigh the inconvenience.

Why You Should Hire a Professional

This is not a DIY project. Electrical work in older homes often involves hidden hazards—fragile wires, confusing layouts, or outdated materials. It takes the experience of a licensed electrician to upgrade your system safely and legally.

At Plugged In Electrical, we specialize in updating electrical house wiring in older homes across South Atlanta. Our team handles everything from inspections and permits to the final panel upgrade. We respect your home’s original structure while bringing it up to modern standards.

You’ll have safer living conditions, better energy efficiency, and the confidence to add new appliances or smart features.

Contact Us

If you’re considering rewiring an old house, don’t wait for a problem to appear. At Plugged In Electrical, we’ve helped hundreds of homeowners protect their properties with modern, code-compliant systems. For expert service and honest pricing, contact us today to schedule a consultation.